VTNA, Mack Retain Oregon Diesel Truck Sales Restrictions

Volvo Trucks North America and Mack Trucks have imposed restrictions on diesel truck sales in Oregon to comply with state regulations that mandate a portion of new truck sales to be zero-emission vehicles. Oregon's regulations closely follow California's Advanced Clean Trucks (ACT) rules, which apply to vehicles over 8,500 pounds. Starting this year, a specific percentage of medium and heavy-duty trucks sold must be electric, with increases each year leading to 7% and 11% requirements for tractors and rigid trucks, respectively, by the 2025 model year. The constraints are due to low electric vehicle sales and a scarcity of available credits under the existing compliance framework. While Mack and Volvo have not entirely halted diesel truck sales, they are closely monitoring sales to meet the zero-emission percentages. In contrast, Daimler Truck North America (DTNA) has recently suspended diesel truck orders due to difficulties predicting credit balances related to zero-emission vehicle sales because of reporting inconsistencies between California and Oregon. DTNA plans to resume diesel sales now that the issues have been resolved. The trend toward electric vehicles in the commercial trucking sector is evident, with both manufacturers introducing battery-electric models. Mack offers the LR Electric and MD Electric, while VTNA offers the VNR Electric, which recently reached significant operational milestones. Other manufacturers like Kenworth and International Motors continue to sell diesel trucks in Oregon. The ongoing transition to zero-emission vehicles in the trucking industry reflects a broader commitment to sustainability. As regulations tighten and market demands shift, manufacturers must adapt to stay competitive. It is vital for the industry to invest in infrastructure that supports electric vehicles, including charging stations and maintenance facilities. Effective collaboration among stakeholders—government, manufacturers, and infrastructure providers—will be crucial to navigate this transition smoothly and meet environmental goals.